The Great Debate: Do You Really Need Decking in Your Garden?

Decking is a popular garden feature, but do you actually need it? While some homeowners swear by their beautifully crafted decks, others find them unnecessary or even high-maintenance. So, is decking a must-have or just an overhyped trend?

Let’s explore the pros and cons of decking, when it makes sense to install it, and whether your garden would truly benefit from it.

The Case for Decking: Why It’s Worth Considering

Creates a Stylish Outdoor Living Space
If you love the idea of an elegant seating area for morning coffee, summer BBQs, or evening drinks, decking provides the perfect platform. It defines your outdoor space and makes it feel like an extension of your home.

Ideal for Uneven or Sloped Gardens
Got a garden with tricky slopes? Decking can level things out without extensive groundwork. Unlike patios, which require a flat surface, decks can be built on raised supports to make use of uneven land.

Adds Value to Your Property
A well-maintained deck can boost kerb appeal and increase your home’s resale value. Buyers often appreciate a ready-made outdoor entertaining area.

Versatile and Customisable
With various materials, finishes, and layouts available, you can design a deck that suits your style. Check out Dino for composite decking, which is proving very popular in the UK. Add lighting, built-in seating, or even a pergola to enhance the space.

Softer Underfoot Compared to Stone or Concrete
If you prefer walking barefoot in your garden, decking is much more comfortable than a hard patio. It also absorbs less heat than stone on hot summer days.

The Downsides: When Decking Might Not Be the Best Choice

Requires Maintenance
Wood decking needs regular staining, sealing, and occasional repairs to keep it in good condition. Even composite decking, though lower maintenance, still needs occasional cleaning.

Can Be Slippery When Wet
Traditional timber decks can become hazardous in wet weather. Anti-slip coatings or textured composite decking can help, but this is something to consider if safety is a concern.

Might Not Suit Every Garden Style
If you love a lush, natural garden with plenty of greenery, decking might feel too structured or out of place. Some homeowners prefer stone, gravel, or lawn for a softer, more organic look.

Can Be Expensive to Install
The cost of materials and professional installation can add up, especially if you opt for high-end composite decking or complex designs. If budget is a priority, a patio or lawn might be more affordable.

Do You Really Need Decking? Key Questions to Ask Yourself

How do you plan to use your garden? If you want a low-maintenance, stylish space for entertaining, decking could be a great fit. But if you prefer a natural, green space, it might not be necessary.

Is your garden level or sloped? If you have a flat garden, a patio might work just as well. If your space is uneven, decking can help create a usable area.

Are you willing to maintain it? If you don’t mind occasional upkeep, decking is a great addition. But if you prefer a ‘set and forget’ approach, consider alternative materials.

What’s your budget? Decking can be a worthwhile investment, but it’s not the cheapest option. Consider whether it fits within your budget or if other garden features would offer better value.

Elements to Consider When Buying Composite Decking

How Much You Want to Spend

It’s always beneficial to have a budget when you’re going to invest in composite decking. Brands vary when it comes to pricing, and things can quickly get out of control. Therefore, when you have a budget, you can narrow down your options. Know how much you’re prepared to spend on your materials. Be sure to shop around winter and spring for the lowest prices. Most brands offer discounts and sales around this time, as everybody is getting ready for the good weather.

How Quickly You Want It

Generally, you should think about when you want to start your decking project. This means that you can get organised and receive the materials on time. For example, some brands will take a number of weeks to get your order to you. But, there are some that already have it in stock, which can ensure you’re not disappointed. So, think about how quickly you want to receive your decking materials and ensure that the brand can meet your needs.

The Best Long-Term Design

When you’re exploring the options for composite decking, it might be tempting to go for a bold colour or style. It’s something new that you’ve never seen before, and you want to make your garden different. While this can be a good idea at first, you have to think about the long-term picture. Indeed, you want a design that’s never going to go out of style or make you change your mind. So, always think about a design that’s going to be as loved in five years as you love it now.

Final Verdict

Decking isn’t essential for every garden, but for the right homeowner, it can be a fantastic addition. If you love outdoor entertaining, need a solution for an uneven garden, or simply want a stylish, designated space, decking is worth considering. However, if you prefer minimal upkeep, a more natural look, or a budget-friendly solution, you might want to explore other options.

So, do you really need decking in your garden? The answer depends on your lifestyle, preferences, and garden layout.